‘Afro Samurai’ to open Oct. 27

Samuel L. Jackson cartoon debuts in Japan

TOKYO — Samuel L. Jackson starrer “Afro Samurai,” a theatrical toon based on a five-episode TV series produced by Japanese animation house Gonzo, will open in Japan Oct. 27, Gonzo parent GDH announced Tuesday. Based on a comic by Takashi Okazaki, the toon combines samurai and hip-hop culture in a story of the title character’s quest to avenge his dead father.

The series bowed on Spike TV in the U.S. in January followed by broadcast on Japanese cable station Wowow in May.

Both the theatrical and TV toons are produced by Jackson, who lends his voice to the hero. The cast also includes Ron Perlman and Kelly Hu, while the soundtrack is composed by hip-hop artist RZA.

The pic will get its theatrical bow in Cinema Rise, a major arthouse in the Tokyo entertainment hub of Shibuya, then roll out nationwide.